Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass has been very popular overseas for many years. BodyFree offers this procedure at our clinic in Sydney. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass provides excellent long-term weight loss results.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is one of several effective weight loss surgery procedures available. Some patients may also consider Gastric Sleeve Surgery, Single Loop Gastric Bypass, or Revision Bariatric Surgery, depending on their individual health needs and treatment goals.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass at a Glance
Procedure: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Surgery time: Approximately 90–120 minutes
Hospital stay: 1–2 nights
Weight loss: Many patients lose 60–75% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months after surgery
Mechanism: Restriction and malabsorption with metabolic effects
Eligibility: Patients with BMI 35+ may qualify. A BMI of 30–34 may also be considered depending on their overall health and medical history.
Best suited for: Patients with existing reflux symptoms and/or type 2 diabetes that is difficult to manage with medication. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is also considered a more appropriate procedure for patients with a BMI over 50.
Important: Patients must not smoke or vape prior to surgery and are required to cease smoking and vaping long-term after surgery, as this significantly increases the risk of complications.
If you are considering Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass call BodyFree on 02 9565 5505 to discuss or to schedule a confidential consultation.
About Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
What Is a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?
Roux-en-Y is a Weight Loss Surgery procedure that reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses a section of the intestinal tract. This results in patients eating smaller portions, feeling less hunger, and losing weight sustainably over time.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery work uses laparoscopic (keyhole) incisions
The procedure is performed using a few small laparoscopic (keyhole) incisions. The surgeon then creates a small portion of narrow stomach, which is disconnected from the rest of the organ.
A portion of the small intestine is then brought up to be joined to this now-smaller portion of stomach. This allows the ingested food to “bypass” the majority of the stomach as well as the first 1-2 metres of the small intestine (most people have 4 metres or more of small intestine).
How does Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery work?
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery works by combining both restrictive and malabsorptive methods. By reducing the physical size of the stomach, patients become fuller faster and eat less. “Bypassing” a section of the intestine means the absorption of calories and nutrients consumed is reduced.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery Pros
- Excellent weight loss success and long-term maintenance.
- Ideal for very poorly controlled Diabetes or Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol).
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery cons
- At risk of medium- to long-term nutritional deficiencies, so may need some vitamin and nutritional supplements long-term.
- Can improve fertility in women, but slightly increase the risk of preterm and underweight birth neonates.
- Some patients may suffer from Dumping Syndrome, resulting in an intolerance to certain foods.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass vs Sleeve Gastrectomy
BodyFree currently considers the Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) to be a superior solution, when taking into account quality of life considerations as well as the excellent weight loss results.
However, there are circumstances when we might recommend a Roux-en-Y.
A Roux-en-Y is considered for patients with poorly controlled Type II Diabetes Mellitus. While the Single Loop/Mini Gastric Bypass may offer better diabetes control for some patients, for others who suffer from problematic reflux symptoms, they may do better with a classical Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Our surgeons will advise on your individual case.
We would also consider using a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass as a revision from a prior Bariatric surgical procedure, such as a Gastric Band or Gastric Sleeve/Sleeve Gastrectomy.
common Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass questions
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery FAQs
Who Needs a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?
Patients who experience weight-related health problems, including Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, may benefit from a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.
This procedure is an excellent weight loss solution that offers long term weight loss results.
As well as our guidelines here on how a Roux-en-Y could benefit your health, our surgical team will provide in-depth, individualised guidance in a consultation to see whether this procedure is right for you.
What other Weight Loss Surgery procedures are available?
If you are exploring Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, it is useful to compare it with other commonly performed bariatric procedures. Each surgical option works differently to help patients achieve sustainable weight loss.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass changes digestion by creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing part of the small intestine.
Single Loop Gastric Bypass combines stomach restriction with intestinal bypass using a simplified surgical connection.
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) reduces stomach size to limit food intake and reduce hunger hormones.
Revision Bariatric Surgery may be required when a previous weight loss procedure needs adjustment or further treatment.
Your bariatric surgeon, Dr David Joseph, will recommend the most appropriate procedure after assessing your health, BMI, and previous surgical history.
All procedures are performed by specialist bariatric surgeon Dr David Joseph (FRACS).
Learn more about your weight loss surgery options and which procedure may be most suitable for you.
Considering Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery?
If you are considering Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery in Sydney, our experienced bariatric team provides personalised treatment plans designed to support long-term weight loss and metabolic health. We offer a range of weight loss procedures including Gastric Sleeve Surgery, Gastric Bypass procedures, and Revision Bariatric Surgery.
Each patient receives a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate procedure based on their medical history, BMI, and weight-related health conditions.
